When a Broomfield Tesla owner got a chip in her windshield that wasn’t repairable, she turned to Van Go Auto Glass for a windshield replacement that was faster and more affordable than taking it to the Tesla dealership. Read how we sourced the correct glass, handled Tesla’s unique recalibration process, and saved her time and money.
The Challenges
A Tesla Model Y owner came to Van Go Auto Glass hoping to get a quick windshield chip repair, but the chip was too deep for a safe and effective repair. To get back on the road safely – and remain compliant with Colorado safety laws – she’d need a full windshield replacement.
She was hesitant to take it to the dealership, where she’d face:
- All-Day Drop-Off: The dealership’s drop-off requirements meant she’d lose access to her car for a full day.
- Inconvenient Location: Living in Broomfield, she’d need to arrange rides to and from the dealership in Superior.
- High Repair Costs: She’d have to pay dealership pricing on glass, plus at least $300 in calibration fees.
So she turned to Van Go Auto Glass for local, expert replacement.
However, replacing a Tesla windshield isn’t simple, even for experienced auto glass shops. Our technicians had to address multiple technical challenges, including:
- Recalibration Restrictions: Tesla blocks third-party calibration tools, recognizing them as “foreign objects.”
- Unique Glass Variations: Varying technologies (ultrasonic sensors vs. Tesla Vision) in older Model Ys meant careful research to source the correct glass.
- Microscopic Hardware: Rearview mirrors are mounted with eyeglass-sized screws, requiring special tools for precise installation.
These challenges didn’t deter our team – we specialize in smart solutions for even the trickiest vehicles.
The Solution
Van Go Auto Glass got right to work coming up with a plan to get her the windshield she needed.
- Special Parts Procurement: We sourced the correct windshield as well as special eyeglasses, magnetic tools, and backup screws to ensure a smooth and precise rearview mirror installation.
- Recalibration Solution: Instead of charging a $300 calibration fee, we used Tesla’s self-calibration mode so the car could recalibrate itself over the next 100 miles.
- Expert Installation: Our technicians completed the work in our Broomfield shop, using controlled lighting and specialized tools for precise sensor and mirror transfer.
The Results
The Tesla owner drove away with a perfect new windshield and peace of mind, knowing her vehicle was safe for the road again.
- Significant Savings: She saved over $500 in parts and service fees compared to dealership pricing.
- Same-Day Service: Instead of losing her vehicle for a full day, the work was completed in about two hours.
- Local Convenience: No trip to Superior – the customer dropped her car off, walked home, and picked it up the same afternoon.
Need help with a tricky windshield?
Whether you own a Tesla, a Rivian, or a discontinued classic convertible, our certified technicians are here to help with repair, replacement, and calibration for all makes and models.
